Capri Private Boat Tour from Sorrento, Capri or Positano

If you’re dreaming of a day on the water with the chance to see some of Italy’s most iconic sights, a private boat tour to Capri from Sorrento might be just what you need. We’ve looked into this experience, and it’s clear that it offers a fantastic way to explore the island’s famous coast at your own pace — without the hassle of crowded ferries or overly structured group tours.

What really appeals to us about this tour? First, the flexibility it offers for a full day of sightseeing, swimming, and land excursions. Second, the personalized nature of a private boat, which means you can customize stops and enjoy the trip without feeling rushed. That said, there’s one aspect worth considering: the additional fuel cost that’s not included in the price. Still, for many, the value of a personalized adventure makes that extra fee worth it.

This tour suits travelers who prioritize comfort and customization, especially those who want to avoid the crowds and have a day on the water that’s tailored to their interests. If you love the idea of floating along the stunning coastline, stopping for dips in crystal waters, and exploring Capri’s highlights at your leisure, this could be a great fit.

Key Points

• Private boat means personalized pacing and stops tailored to your wishes
• Includes snorkeling gear, snacks, and drinks for a relaxed day on the water
• Multiple land stops like Capri’s famous Piazzetta, Gardens, and archaeological sites
• Additional costs include fuel (€300) and optional entrance fees like the Blue Grotto (€19)
• Tour duration is around 8 hours from start to finish, balancing time at sea and on land
• Maximum group size is 12 people, keeping things intimate and comfortable

The Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect

Starting Point and First Impressions

Your day kicks off at 9:00 am from Sorrento, where a friendly crew will meet you. The focus here is on avoiding the ferry, so you’ll hop straight onto your private vessel, ready for a full day of exploring. The boat itself is well-equipped with snorkeling gear, snacks, soft drinks, and limoncello, making sure you’re comfortable as you set sail.

Cruise Along the Coast and the Faraglioni

One of the highlights is cruising past the Faraglioni rocks, those iconic sea stacks that symbolize Capri. Travelers consistently mention how impressive these formations are, especially with clear water and good weather. We loved the way the boat glided close to these natural marvels, perfect for photos. It’s worth noting that the blue lizard living on the rocks adds a quirky touch to the scenery, per reviews.

Sea Grottoes and Swimming Stops

The tour includes several stops to swim and snorkel — a big plus for water lovers. The Blue Grotto is a major attraction, although access depends on weather and time; entrance is €19, and you might take a small rowboat inside to see the stunning blue inside. Some reviews point out that the grotto might be closed, which is a chance you take with external sites and weather. Still, other caves like the Grotta Verde offer spectacular views and crystal-clear waters you can jump into.

Land Excursions

Once docked in Capri, you’ll get around 4 hours to explore on your own. Top spots include:
– Piazzetta di Capri: The bustling heart of the island, perfect for people-watching and shopping.
– Giardini di Augusto: Small but impressive, these gardens offer sweeping views of the coastline.
– Monte Solaro: An optional ride on the chairlift to see panoramic vistas over the island and beyond.
– Villa San Michele and Villa Jovis: Archaeological sites and historical landmarks that provide a glimpse into Capri’s Roman past.

Returning to Sorrento

After your land adventures, the boat will take you back along the coast, passing Marina Piccola and Spiaggia Marina Grande. These spots are great for photos and soaking in the scenery. The tour typically wraps up around 5 pm, leaving you with a full day of highlights.

The Experience: What Travelers Say

Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides and captains. “Giovanni was the best captain and had us laughing the entire time,” one reviewer shared. Many mention how the crew’s friendliness and local knowledge made the trip feel special. Some highlight the delicious snacks, drinks, and limoncello as a nice touch, although a few note that the fuel cost (€300) is an extra expense not included in the initial price.

The scenery is often described as breathtaking, especially the iconic Faraglioni and the sea grottoes, which are truly something to behold. Several guests mention how the flexibility and personalized stops allowed them to enjoy Capri’s hidden corners and avoid overly touristy areas.

Of course, some reviews point out potential downsides. One guest felt that the Blue Grotto was closed when they visited, which is a risk with external attractions. A couple of travelers mentioned boat delays or feeling that the overall value was diminished by the extra fuel fee and optional port charges. But overall, most agree that the experience is worth the cost for the chance to explore Capri from a private boat.

Practical Details: What You Need to Know

Duration and Timing

This is an 8-hour tour, starting at 9 am. The long day allows ample time for cruising, stops, and land exploration. Keep in mind that the itinerary is flexible, but you’ll want to allocate time for the key land stops and some relaxing swimming.

Group Size and Comfort

Limited to 12 people, the boat keeps the atmosphere intimate, with plenty of space to relax and enjoy the scenery. The combination of privacy and shared experiences makes it suitable for couples, friends, or small families.

Cost and What’s Included

At $385.50 per person, the price covers:
– Use of snorkeling equipment
– Snacks, fruit, and drinks including soft drinks, beer, prosecco, and limoncello
– Towels and insurance

However, note that fuel (€300) is an extra expense, and entrance fees like the Blue Grotto (€19) are additional. You might also choose to visit attractions like Villa San Michele or Monte Solaro, which may have their own fees.

Considerations

While the tour is largely praised, some travelers mention boat delays, rough sea conditions, or less-than-ideal weather. The tour is weather-dependent, and cancellations due to poor conditions are possible but usually lead to a full refund or date change.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This private boat trip truly suits those who want a personalized, flexible experience in Capri without the usual crowds. It’s perfect for water lovers who enjoy swimming and snorkeling, and for those keen to see the island’s main sights at their own pace.

If you’re after a luxurious, relaxing day with knowledgeable guides, delicious local drinks, and scenic stops, this tour hits the mark. It’s also a good pick if you’re traveling with a small group or a partner who values comfort and exclusivity.

However, if your main focus is on visiting specific attractions like the Blue Grotto (and you’re set on seeing it inside), be aware that weather and external factors could impact your plans. Also, if you’re very budget-conscious, consider the extra fuel fee and optional entrance costs when planning.

In all, this tour offers a beautiful way to experience Capri from the sea, balancing adventure, relaxation, and cultural stops. With friendly guides and plenty of flexible options, it can turn a regular day into a memorable adventure — as long as you’re prepared for some additional costs and potential weather hiccups.

FAQ

Is the Blue Grotto included in the tour?
No, the Blue Grotto entrance fee (€19) is not included and depends on weather and time constraints.

How long do we spend on land in Capri?
You get roughly four hours to explore the island, including stops at the Piazzetta, gardens, and archaeological sites.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to 12 people, making it intimate and allowing for personalized attention.

Are snorkeling gear and drinks included?
Yes, snorkeling equipment is provided, along with snacks, fruit, and drinks like soft drinks, beer, prosecco, and limoncello.

What about the extra fuel cost?
Fuel costs an additional €300 per booking and is paid separately. This fee is not included in the tour price.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, the tour is private, so the skipper can adjust stops and timing based on your preferences, weather, and available time.

If you’re after a day of exploring Capri with comfort, flexibility, and great scenery, this private boat tour from Sorrento might just be the experience to remember. Just keep an eye on optional costs, and you’re set for a fantastic adventure on Italy’s legendary coast.